We were looking to extend our backyard entertaining for more than just the summer season. With the temperatures dropping in the evenings now, this fire pit has been the perfect solution! It gives off great heat and fits perfectly in the center of our conversation seating area. Kind of skinny for our seating area, but the heat it gives off makes up for it. We replaced the lava rocks with blue fire glass to match the pool. Also, we ordered a fire mat (not shown) to go underneath it since it is sitting on our wooden deck. I’m not sure if it is needed, but we wanted to take extra precautions. No assembly required. Easy to start...as long as you read the instructions! Push and hold the igniter button until it clicks, then push in and turn the control knob to Low and HOLD IN FOR 20 SECONDS. Holding in the knob allows the gas to flow through all the fire holes. Perfect addition to our backyard! Highly recommend!